A Case For the Pretzel

Today is National Pretzel Day…the day to give our hats a tip to the long-suffering cousin of the more popular potato chip. I’m not sure how it happened…why or where or when but in a list of the most popular snacks...pretzels aren’t in the top 10? How can they lose out to Cheetos...sure they may be a little bit duller but Cheetos leave your fingers orange...and is that even a real color? If you think that doesn’t bother the pretzel…bother them a lot. I imagine that’s the real reason they’re all tied up knots. So today lets glorify the pretzel and spread good pretzel thoughts across the land Did you know they were originally shaped to resemble praying hands? And here’s an interesting little tidbit, an often forgotten stat the marriage term ‘tie the knot....we have the pretzel to thank for that. Pretzels once were a part of weddings, held by the couple for everyone to see to be broken and eaten together as a symbol of unity. The pretzel signifies good luck…in Germany children believe it brings good cheer. That’s why they tie one around their neck at the beginning of each year. Pretzels once adorned Christmas trees…Hey! this is a snack with legs... At one time they were even hidden...on Easter Sunday…with the eggs. A long time ago pretzels were a common way to help the poor get fed. They were often thought so highly of...they were buried with the dead! I could go on and on but I think I’ve made my case… When it comes to every other snack…you’re all vying for 2nd place. So move over cookies, candy, crackers, Cheeto’s and potato chips… you’ve all had your fun. It’s time for the pretzel to take its rightful place as the snack world’s number 1.